The dome is always empty, democracy is always full

Introduction to Parliament House of Victoria 1. History and Status - Construction Background: Construction began in 1855 during the Victorian gold rush. Designed by architects Knight & Kerr, the neoclassical style reflects the ambitions of the colonial period. - Unfinished Works: Due to the economic recession, the central dome and other designs were never completed, becoming an iconic "unfinished heritage". - Cradle of Federation: From 1901 to 1927, it was the seat of Australia's first federal parliament and witnessed major historical moments such as the declaration of World War I. - Heritage Certification: Inscribed on the Victorian Heritage List in 1982, it recognized its triple value of architecture, history and culture. 2. Architectural Highlights - Internal Treasures: - Queen's Hall: Completed in 1879, the gilded reliefs and gorgeous plaster decorations are amazing. - Parliament Chamber: The House of Commons (green) and the House of Lords (red) are made of cedar wood carvings and gold leaf inlays, and the dome is painted with murals symbolizing industry and agriculture. - Library: Checkerboard floor tiles with arched colored windows, a model of 19th-century craftsmanship. - Inscription in the foyer: Glazed tiles are engraved with the proverb: "In the multitude of counselors, a people is safe" (from the Bible Proverbs 11:14). - Black technology: 19th-century underground tunnel ventilation system, combined with the garden "ventilation tower" to regulate temperature. - Secret Garden: Designed by William Guilfoyle, the designer of the Royal Botanic Gardens, it has winding paths and native plants. 3. Tour Guide - Free guided tour: - Time: Monday to Friday when the parliament is not in session (check the schedule on the official website). - Content: Go deep into the chamber, Queen's Hall, and library to reveal the secrets of democratic operation (about 1 hour). - Featured Experiences: - Retro High Tea: Enjoy three-tier dim sum in a historic restaurant ($50/person, reservation required). - Theme Tours: Architectural Exploration, Garden Walk and other themed routes (open irregularly). - Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps are available in some areas, but there are many restrictions on ancient buildings (advance consultation is recommended). 4. Practical Tips - Address: Intersection of Spring Street and Bourke Street (adjacent to the Treasury Gardens). - Transportation: - Train: Direct access to Parliament Station. - Tram: 35, 86, 96 to "Spring St/Parliament" station. - Opening: 9:30-17:00 on weekdays (closed on statutory holidays). - Aboriginal Origin: The building is located on the traditional territory of the Kulin Nation, and a commemorative plaque is set at the entrance. Summary Melbourne Parliament House is a dual witness of colonial glory and democratic evolution: > ✨ The magnificent hall--tells the ambition of the gold rush era, > 📜 The hanging gavel--freezes the moment of the birth of the federation, > 🌿 The modern office in the basement--is a metaphor for the symbiosis of history and the future. Travel suggestions: ✅ Must join the guided tour-the experience of freely walking through the core of power is unique! ✅ Matching itinerary: Parliament House in the morning → Picnic in Treasury Gardens in the afternoon → Foraging in Chinatown in the evening. There were only two of us at the time, and we were embarrassed to ask them to take us on a guided tour, so we missed the opportunity! #summervacay#myitinerary #thingstodo #familytravel #travel